Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reveals why he is such a fan of Sheffield United and boss Chris Wilder

Although United suffered defeat in their two games against the champions-elect this season - although they only lost 1-0 at Bramall Lane when Dean Henderson let Gini Wijnaldum's shot squirm through him - the Blades made a good impression on Klopp.

Klopp was asked about the other candidates for the Premier League's manager of the year award - including Wilder, who has led the Blades to fifth in the table going into their winter break.

And Klopp said: "It's absolutely understandable [that there are other candidates.

"When you're the manager of these boys, you're in the spotlight as well. I won't make the decision but I've said it before, I didn't know Chris Wilder before we played Sheffield United and now I follow Sheffield United, not only when we play them but for different reasons."

Speaking after their 2-0 win over United at Anfield in January, Klopp said of United: "Before the game, I watched a story about where they have come from and it is a wonderful story, an amazing story, and I have so much admiration for them.

“They have some very good players and clearly a very good manager. When you consider the level some of those players were at not so long ago - and then look at what they are doing now - you can’t have anything but respect for that.”